Magic Toledo: The most beautiful metro in Europe is below Naples
Its design, designed by the Catalan architect óscara Tusquets Blanca, combines functionality, contemporary art and the poetic vision of the sea, all of which placed 50 meters below the surface.
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Entering the Toledo Station is not just a physical descent under the ground, it is a journey through light, color and history. The main theme of the design becomes water, and the experience is increasing that it comes down deeper: from warm, earthy tones that are reminiscent of the soil of Naples, to the deep blue shades that evoke the feeling of dipping into the sea. This transition is experienced both visually and emotionally.
At the center of the station is « Crater de Luz », a large conical opening that penetrates all levels and misses natural light from the surface. This light installation not only illuminates, but also makes the impression that you are under open sky, despite being surrounded by concrete and ceramics.
The station is also a home to significant works of art. Among them are two mosaics of renowned South African artist William Kentridge, who rely on the motives of Naples history and symbolism. Views of processions, horses, characters from the 1799 revolution, all of which seem almost filmmaking, as if you were going through history while waiting for the train.
But perhaps the most arbitrary part is « Sea Gallery », a long corridor decorated with LED installations that simulate waves and light play in the water. This light experience creates an almost meditative atmosphere, completely unusual for a traffic space like a metro.
The Toledo Station is part of the wider project of « Art Station » (Le Stazioni Dell’arte), involving more than 90 artists from all over the world, and the aim was to transform the Undo Railroad of Naples to the public gallery of contemporary art. The success of the project is confirmed by numerous awards, including Leaf Award for the best public project of the year and a place on the list of the most beautiful metro stations according to prestigious media such as CNN and The Telegraph.
When art and architecture merge with the city on the move, something like Toledo, the most beautiful metro in Europe, hidden deep under Naples, is created.